The STEM Connection

The STEM Connection is a non-profit organization dedicated to making Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math (STEM) principles accessible to youth, with a particular focus on those underrepresented in STEM fields. Founded in 2014 by Vera Vander Kooy, a highly regarded STEM educator and naturalist, the organization began with a single summer camp for 100 participants. Vander Kooy, who has over 15 years of experience in elementary and middle school science education, established the organization to provide hands-on, inquiry-based learning experiences. She has been recognized with the Joe Wright Recognition of Excellence Award by the Environmental Educators Association of Indiana in 2017 and the Youth Bridge Builder Award from TechPoint in 2020.

The organization's primary programming is hosted at Moore Road Farm in Indianapolis, Indiana, which features a river, forest, fields, and a garden, providing a unique outdoor classroom. The STEM Connection has grown significantly, now serving over 6,000 individuals annually through a variety of on-site and virtual programs. Its offerings include summer camps, year-round field trips, family events, educator resources, STEM kits, and leadership programs. The organization's business model is fee-for-service, supplemented by donations, corporate sponsorships, and grants, such as a multi-year grant from the Lilly Endowment Inc. It maintains a commitment to accessibility, with over 60% of youth participants qualifying for free or reduced lunch programs and over 50% identifying as female.

The STEM Connection’s curriculum is aligned with Indiana Academic Standards and focuses on experiential learning to spark interest and awareness of STEM in daily life. It partners with schools, families, and other youth-serving organizations to deliver its services. The organization has received multiple awards for its programs and has been endorsed by the Indiana Department of Education as a quality education-based community partner. Keywords: youth STEM education, nature-based learning, underrepresented youth, STEM outreach, hands-on science, environmental education, non-profit, Indianapolis, STEM camps, educator resources, inquiry-based learning, STEM career pathways, experiential learning, youth development, science education, STEM for girls, outdoor education, educational partnerships, community programs, STEM kits